Truncal ataxia | |
---|---|
Other names | Trunk ataxia, Ataxic gait[1] |
Caused by midline damage to the cerebellar vermis | |
Specialty | Neurology |
Symptoms | "drunken sailor" gait characterised by uncertain starts and stops, falling |
Causes | Spinocerebellar Ataxia (Lesion in Flocculonodular Lobe OR Vestibulo-cerebellum) |
Truncal ataxia (or trunk ataxia) is a wide-based "drunken sailor" gait characterised by uncertain starts and stops, lateral deviations and unequal steps. It is an instability of the trunk and often seen during sitting.[2] It is most visible when shifting position or walking heel-to-toe.[1]
As a result of this gait impairment, falling is a concern in patients with ataxia.[3]
Truncal ataxia affects the muscles closer to the body such as the trunk, shoulder girdle and hip girdle. It is involved in gait stability.[3]
Truncal ataxia is different from appendicular ataxia. Appendicular ataxia affects the movements of the arms and legs. It is caused by lesions of the cerebellar hemispheres.[3]